Andy Tate reports that Councillor Anne Giebeler's position on political party affiliation as an issue for Brighton and Hove (The Argus, December 3).

In my experience of systems of government in other countries, the affinity of councillors to political parties only creates a focus on carrying out central government's actions, which are often in conflict with the needs of the local community.

If all councillors were independents, I am sure we would start to see a lot more decision-making that was right for the city and its people rather than merely driving the goals and performance metrics of the Government.

Anne's struggle to belong to a party of some sort is a cry for help in seeking to build a forum of like-minded councillors who do see the welfare of the city as the most important goal.

Anne's support of the community she represents is unquestionable and to ridicule her in this matter demeans her personal contribution to the people of Hove.

The petty political bickering demonstrated in Tate's article is in itself an excellent example of why politics should not be part of our local government process.

If councillors such as Brian Finch and Garry Peltzer Dunn spent more effort supporting members of the council who are actually making a difference to our lives in this city, I'm certain our taxes would be better spent on the things we as a city need.

-Mark Brown, Hove